This summer, Havenstein says, that means keeping a close eye on your pets for fleas and ticks.

Warmer than normal temperatures last summer made conditions ripe for the pests this year.

The staff at North Main already is dealing with more cases of ticks -normally rare in the Royal Oak area, Havenstein said. She said that the animal hospital has seen a 75 percent increase in the number of tick cases this year over last year.

Havenstein urges prevention. She recommends that pets get a vaccination for Lyme disease.

“It’s a pretty major concern,” Havenstein said. “We have plenty of tools to combat it.”

In addition to the vaccination, people regularly should check their pets for fleas and ticks.

“It’s good to do a body check, especially if they’re in a wood area,” she said.

What’s good for pets is also good for humans.

“It really is a human concern as well,” Havenstein said. “Try to wear long sleeves and pants when working outside.”